Anthracite, a six-part French TV mini-series, will debut on Netflix on April 10, 2024. Created by Fanny Robert and Maxime Berthemy, the show unfolds in the chilling landscape of the French Alps. It is inspired by real-life events from 1995, specifically the Order of the Solar Temple sect's massacre.
The thriller follows the mysterious disappearance of a journalist and the return of a dangerous cult, taking fans on a very intense trip. With its cryptic plot and characters, Anthracite is sure to fascinate readers all over the world.
The cast is led by Noémie Schmidt, Hatik, and Camille Lou, each of whom brilliantly brings their characters to life. Strong performances by supporting players like Jean-Marc Barr and Stefano Cassetti also provide the story with more complexity and mystery. Their responsibilities and relationships produce a dynamic team, each with a different share in riddles solved.
The official synopsis states:
"An old case is wrenched open when a reporter goes missing, leading his web sleuth daughter to a small mountain town haunted by a sect, secrecy and death."
List of cast of Anthracite
Noémie Schmidt as Ida Heilman
Noémie Schmidt stars as Ida Heilman, the determined web sleuth leading the investigation of her father's disappearance. Known for her performance in The Student and Mister Henri, Schmidt delivers a powerful portrayal of a daughter caught in a web of cult-related terror. Her character's relentless pursuit of the truth drives the narrative forward, making her a central figure in the series.
Hatik as Jaro Gatsi
Hatik takes on the role of Jaro Gatsi, an ex-convict with a mysterious past. Out on parole, Jaro becomes an unlikely partner to Ida as they search for her father. Hatik, known for his performance in Validé, brings a rugged yet vulnerable edge to his character, making Jaro one of the series' most compelling figures.
Camille Lou as Giovanna DeLuca
Camille Lou plays Giovanna DeLuca, a dedicated police officer who aids Ida in her quest. Lou, known for her role in Women at War, brings strength and resolve to her portrayal of Giovanna, making her an integral part of the investigation. Her character adds a layer of law enforcement expertise to the unfolding mystery.
Jean-Marc Barr as Solal Heilman
Veteran actor Jean-Marc Barr plays Solal Heilman, the journalist whose disappearance sparks the series' central mystery. Known for his work in The Rebellious, Barr’s character is crucial to uncovering the deep-seated secrets of the Écrins cult. His role connects past and present events, tying together the narrative threads of the show.
Stefano Cassetti as Caleb Johansson
Stefano Cassetti stars as Caleb Johansson, the leader of the Écrins cult. His chilling portrayal of Johansson, who was arrested for ritualistic murders in 1994, is pivotal to the series' plot. Cassetti, known for Young & Beautiful, skillfully portrays a man haunted by his actions, adding a dark intensity to the series.
Supporting characters and production team
In addition to the main cast, Anthracite features a talented group of supporting actors. Nicolas Godart plays Roméo Deluca, Jaro’s co-worker, while Florence Muller takes on the role of Marie Chevallier, with whom Jaro lives.
Masha Billy portrays Malia Gatsi, Jaro's daughter, adding a personal stake to Jaro’s involvement in the investigation. Other notable cast members include Raphaël Ferret as Erwan Le Floch and Bernard Blancan as Denis Monnier.
The show is directed by a team of skilled filmmakers, led by Fanny Robert and Maxime Berthemy. Their combined expertise in creating intense, character-driven narratives is evident in the execution of Anthracite. The series’ episodes are intricately crafted, each revealing more layers of the cult’s dark history.
Plot
The series’ plot centers on Ida Heilman, portrayed by Noémie Schmidt, a web sleuth desperate to find her missing father, Solal. As she dives deeper into the investigation, she partners with ex-convict Jaro Gatsi (played by Hatik) and uncovers secrets tied to a religious cult.
This high-stakes search for truth blends tension, mystery, and danger as Ida tries to unravel the dark history of Lévionna, a fictional town hiding a gruesome past.
Episode details
Anthracite consists of six episodes, each delving deeper into the mystery surrounding the Écrins cult and the town of Lévionna:
- Still on Fire (Les flammes brûlent encore)
- The 13th Disciple (Le 13e Disciple)
- Trust No One (Tu ne peux faire confiance à personne)
- Levia Borelis (Levia Borelis)
- A Darker Shadow (Une ombre plus noire encore)
- The Point of Equilibrium (L'Équilibre du monde)
Every episode of Anthracite builds on the last to intensify the suspense as Ida and Jaro approach the truth. Tightly timed, the episodes keep viewers on the tip of their seats.
Anthracite offers a comprehensive look at the ensemble cast that brings this thrilling narrative to life. From Stefano Cassetti's terrifying depiction of cult leader Caleb Johansson to Noémie Schmidt's relentless performance of Ida, the play features an outstanding roster of talent.
Anthracite is poised to be among the most discussed shows of 2024 with its riveting story against the spooky background of the French Alps and superb ensemble. Mystery and suspense aficionados won't want to miss it.